Sciatica is the name given to pain caused by irritation of the sciatic nerve. Anything that irritates this nerve can cause pain, ranging from mild to severe. Sciatica is usually caused by a compressed nerve in the lower spine.
Often, the term “sciatica” is confused with general back pain. However, sciatica is not just limited to the back. The sciatic nerve is the longest and widest nerve in the human body. It runs from the lower back, through the buttocks, and down the legs, ending just below the knee.
This nerve controls several muscles in the lower legs and supplies sensation to the skin of the foot and the majority of the lower leg. Sciatica is not a condition, but rather a symptom of another problem involving the sciatic nerve. Some experts estimate that up to 40 percent of people will experience sciatica at least once in their life.
Fast facts on sciatica:
The sciatic nerve is the longest nerve in the human body.
The most common cause of sciatica is a slipped (herniated) disk.
Cognitive behavioral therapy can help some people manage the pain of sciatica.
Sciatica is not a condition; it is a symptom.
SYMPTOMS
Symptoms of sciatica
The main symptom is a shooting pain anywhere along the sciatic nerve; from the lower back, through the buttock, and down the back of either leg.
Other common symptoms of sciatica include:
numbness in the leg along the nerve
tingling sensation (pins and needles) in the feet and toes
This pain can range in severity and may be aggravated by sitting for long periods.
TREATMENTS
What are the treatments for sciatica?
We will look at treatments for acute and chronic sciatica individually:
Acute sciatica treatments
painkillers
Painkillers are often used in treatment.
Most cases of acute sciatica respond well to self-care measures, which include:
Over-the-counter painkillers such as ibuprofen, which are also available to buy online.
Exercises such as walking or light stretching.
Hot or cold compression packs help to reduce pain. They are available to purchase online. It is often helpful to alternate between the two.
Not all painkillers are suitable for everyone; individuals should be sure to review options with their doctor.
Sciatica treatment
Doctors of Chiropractic (DC) medicine regularly treat sciatica. Sciatica is characterized by pain that originates in the low back or buttock that travels into one or both legs. Sciatic nerve pain varies in intensity and frequency; minimal, moderate, severe and occasional, intermittent, frequent or constant. Our Discover Health and Wellness office in Ken Caryl can evaluate and treat the uncomfortable nature of sciatica so you can get back to living a normal lifestyle.
